Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

On those busy evenings when dinner needs to come together without much fuss, stuffed bell peppers with ground beef offer a reliable solution that feels like home cooking at its best. The vibrant peppers encase a savory mix of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and hints of Parmesan, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce that brings warmth to the table. It’s a dish that balances bold flavors with simple steps, perfect for when time is short but you want something substantial.

This recipe shines for weeknight meals or casual family gatherings, as it reheats beautifully for lunch the next day. Many appreciate how the leftovers hold their texture, making it ideal for meal prep among busy schedules. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak with whatever veggies or spices you have on hand, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: These stuffed bell peppers with ground beef deliver a comforting filling packed with protein and tender flavors, keeping everyone full and cozy.
• Simple to Prepare: Straightforward steps and pantry staples mean dinner is ready in under two hours, even on rushed weeknights.
• Family-Pleasing Classic: Tangy tomato sauce and cheesy topping create a hit that evokes nostalgic meals for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap pepper colors or add veggies for bright variety that fits picky eaters and dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble early and bake later, or reheat leftovers easily for quick, flavorful meals all week.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef Ingredients

I love how the lean ground beef, rice, and breadcrumbs come together for a hearty filling that complements the crisp bell peppers and zesty tomato sauce so well. Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients really makes the flavors pop, giving you a more vibrant and satisfying dish every time.

• Green bell peppers: Provide a crisp, slightly sweet vessel that holds the filling and softens beautifully during baking.
• Lean ground beef: Forms the savory base, adding rich protein and moisture to the stuffing mixture.
• Cooked white rice: Absorbs flavors while contributing a fluffy texture that balances the meatiness.
• Italian-style bread crumbs: Help bind the filling and add a subtle crunch for better mouthfeel.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that enhances the overall savory profile.
• Finely chopped onion: Offers mild sweetness and depth to the beef mixture without overpowering.
• Large egg: Acts as a binder to keep the stuffing intact and moist during cooking.
• Garlic powder: Infuses aromatic warmth that complements the beef and tomato elements.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle spice to season and elevate the flavors.
• Tomato sauce: Creates a tangy, enveloping base that tenderizes the peppers as it bakes.
• White vinegar: Sharpens the sauce with a bright acidity, cutting through the richness.
• Salt: Seasons the filling to bring out all the natural tastes.

Note: The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the whole green bell peppers, and boil them for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened. Then, remove the peppers, rinse under cold water to cool, drain well, cut off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes for clean cavities.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, bread crumbs, 4 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly by hand until well incorporated. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the stuffing for better taste.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture generously into each prepared bell pepper. Pack it firmly but not too tight. This allows for even cooking and prevents the filling from overflowing during baking.

Step 4: Arrange and Sauce

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish with the stuffing facing upwards. In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce and white vinegar. Then, pour the mixture over the peppers to cover them partially, which adds tangy moisture as they bake.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Baste with the sauce a few times during cooking, until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and is no longer pink inside.

Pro Tips for Success

• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground beef hits 160°F for safe, fully cooked results.
• Blanch Peppers Evenly: Boil all peppers for the same 4-5 minutes to achieve uniform softening without overcooking.
• Mix Filling Thoroughly: Combine ingredients well by hand to distribute flavors evenly and prevent dry spots in the stuffing.
• Baste During Baking: Spoon sauce over the peppers a few times midway to keep them moist and enhance the tangy tomato coating.
• Vary Pepper Colors: Substitute green with red or yellow for sweeter notes and a more colorful presentation.

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

Garnishes

I always finish my stuffed bell peppers with ground beef by adding fresh chopped parsley for a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan just before serving melts slightly and adds a golden, nutty crunch. If I want more flavor, I sometimes add a few red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Side Dishes

Serving these alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty filling nicely. I pair them with warm garlic bread that soaks up the tangy tomato sauce for extra comfort. Steamed green beans offer a tender, fresh contrast to keep the meal light.

Creative Ways to Present

I like arranging the stuffed bell peppers with ground beef upright on a large plate with sauce spooned around for a cozy family-style look. For casual dinners, I halve them lengthwise and place over quinoa for easier portions. Nestling them in individual bowls with pooled sauce keeps everything warm and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftover stuffed bell peppers with ground beef, I place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cooling them completely before sealing prevents excess moisture and sogginess. This way, they stay juicy and flavorful for quick weeknight meals.

Freezing

To freeze stuffed bell peppers with ground beef, I wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then slip them into a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge to maintain the filling’s tenderness. I avoid refreezing once thawed to keep the quality high.

Reheating

For reheating, I warm stuffed bell peppers with ground beef in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to avoid drying the tops. The microwave option works well too, using medium power for 2-3 minutes per pepper with a splash of water added. Both methods restore that cozy warmth without toughening the beef.

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